AFU Newsletter - No 10 - 1977

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'nyhetsblad' (issue 10, April-June 1976) from 'arbetsgruppen för ufologi' (AFU) is primarily dedicated to the work and development of AFU's UFO library and archive. The cover prominently features Kjell Jonsson, identified as Sweden's first UFO librarian, who has recently completed his studies in library science. The magazine details the library's services, including bibliographic research, information, and documentation, and appeals for donations of books, magazines, and financial support to expand its collection and operations.

Kjell Jonsson - Sweden's First UFO Librarian

The central theme of the issue is an interview with Kjell Jonsson, AFU's librarian. Jonsson discusses his motivation for pursuing UFO librarianship, stemming from the discontinuation of the magazine 'Ufologen' and the availability of Lennart Johansson's book collection. He outlines his immediate goals, which include cataloging the library's approximately 500 book titles according to new cataloging rules and organizing press clippings. Jonsson expresses his ambition for AFU's library to become an official special library, capable of serving public libraries, but acknowledges the need for state funding to achieve this. He also highlights the challenges of acquiring UFO literature due to limited funds, as membership fees primarily cover the publication of the newsletter. The interview touches upon the importance of standardizing information and the potential for increased public interest and financial support if the status of UFO research improves.

Jonsson also discusses his ongoing project, the 'Svensk UFO Bibliografi 1946-1975', which aims to provide a comprehensive overview of UFO literature. He notes the difficulty in obtaining complete bibliographic data and the challenges of sourcing materials. He estimates that his personal investment in his UFO interest, including books, materials, travel, and subscriptions, amounts to a significant sum.

Reviews of UFO Literature

The issue includes several book reviews:

• 'Project Blue Book' by Brad Steiger: Reviewed by Anders Liljegren, this book is criticized for being poorly edited and disorganized, mixing public documents with Steiger's commentary. While it might be valuable for those interested in specific cases from the Project Blue Book archive, it is described as messy and lacking in depth.
• 'Tefatsfolket har landat!' by Staffan Stigsjöö: Also reviewed by Anders Liljegren, this book faces strong criticism for its lack of critical analysis, reliance on unverified reports, and poor writing style. Liljegren argues that Stigsjöö fails to differentiate between credible evidence and speculation, presenting a biased and intellectually questionable account of UFO phenomena. The review points out numerous factual errors, misspellings, and logical inconsistencies.
• 'Encounters with UFO Occupants' by Coral & Jim Lorenzen: Reviewed by Håkan Blomqvist, this book is presented as an expanded edition of a previous work, focusing on humanoid cases and including chapters on hypnosis and psychological aspects. Blomqvist notes the Lorenzens' consistent stance on UFOs being extraterrestrial craft and their avoidance of incorporating folklore into their research. He finds the book a valuable introduction to the humanoid problem, though he suggests it could benefit from a broader perspective.
• 'Links With Space' by David Spangler: Mentioned in the context of the Findhorn community, this booklet is described as containing messages from a deva and a person named John. It offers an explanation for UFO phenomena involving materialized astral patterns and thought forms from ancient civilizations, a theory linked to occult traditions and the concept of 'psychic residue'.

UFO Photography Analysis

A section titled 'DATORISERAD BILDBEHANDLING KAN AVSLÖJA FALSKA FOTON' (Computerized Image Processing Can Reveal Fake Photos) discusses a method developed by William H. Spaulding and his colleagues at Ground Saucer Watch (GSW). This technique uses computer-aided image processing to enhance and analyze UFO photographs, aiming for greater accuracy than manual methods. The process involves three steps: enhancing grayscale changes to reveal details like thin threads or shadows, converting grayscale to color for a more illusory representation of object density and profile, and using a computer to analyze pixel data for pattern recognition and comparison across multiple images. The article mentions that this method has been used to assess existing UFO photos, with the Trent photos from 1952 being deemed credible, while others have been identified as hoaxes or misinterpretations.

UFO Organizations and Activities

The issue provides updates on various UFO organizations across Sweden:

• Nyköpings UFO-Förening: Has 45 members and reported 35 witnesses to UFO phenomena in their area. They organized an exhibition and film screening.
• Thorvald Berthelsen: Presented the 'UFO-Sverige' film at Lindesskolan.
• Köpings UFO-Förening: Visited Hallstahammar's library, attracting a large audience.
• UFO-Sundsvall: Faced financial difficulties due to new regulations requiring national organizations to have 3,000 members. They organized a planning conference and a public information program.
• Uvberget in Smedjebacken: Hosted a meeting for members from five different UFO associations for joint observations and discussions.
• Enköpings UFO-Förening: Meets regularly and conducts aerial surveillance, planning public information meetings.
• Ludvika UFO-Förening: Opened a new meeting location and planned study circles, information sessions, and expert lectures.
• Malmö Interplanetariska Sällskap: Continues to meet monthly for discussions, with around 100 members.

UFO-Sverige Training

A weekend seminar for field researchers and others interested in UFO investigation is announced for September 24-25. The course will cover theoretical and practical aspects, including interview methodology, witness psychology, and common misinterpretations. It will be held near Köping.

Other Sections

• 'Någon driver med oss!' (Someone is fooling us!): This section discusses the Lorenzen's work and the idea of psychological suggestion influencing UFO sightings.
• 'Findhorn - UFO och Naturmystik': This article explores the Findhorn community, linking their work with nature spirits and extraterrestrial contact to a broader interest in UFOs and nature mysticism.
• 'Kan en UFO-bok bli sämre?' (Can a UFO book be worse?): This is a critical review of Staffan Stigsjöö's book.
• 'Spökraketerna 1946' (Ghost Rockets 1946): An announcement about a compilation of telegrams from 1946 concerning ghost rockets, available for purchase to support AFU.
• 'Boknyheter' (New Books): A list of recently published books related to UFOs and related topics.
• 'Nytillkommen litteratur' (New Literature): Further listings of new books and reports available in AFU's library.
• 'TACK!' (Thanks!): Acknowledgment of a donation of UFO magazines from Sten Lindgren.
• 'UFO-FÖRENINGAR, HÖR UPP!' (UFO ORGANIZATIONS, PAY ATTENTION!): An appeal to UFO organizations to send their archival material to AFU for documentation and research.
• 'Reser du utomlands i sommar?' (Are you traveling abroad this summer?): A request for help in obtaining UFO literature from various countries.
• 'Svensk Ufologi' (Swedish Ufology): Brief news items about UFO-related events and activities in Sweden, including an exhibition at Vetlanda museum, an information meeting in Nybro, and the formation of the Oskarshamns UFO-Förening.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the importance of documentation and archiving in UFO research, the role of specialized libraries, and the critical evaluation of UFO literature. AFU's stance appears to be one of promoting serious, research-oriented UFO investigation, distinguishing itself from sensationalism and speculation. There is a clear emphasis on building a comprehensive resource for UFO studies in Sweden, encouraging contributions from individuals and organizations alike. The magazine also reflects a growing interest in the intersection of UFO phenomena with broader themes of mysticism and alternative belief systems, as seen in the Findhorn article.

Title: UFO-Aktuellt
Issue: nr 4
Volume: 1977
Date: 1977
Publisher: AFU
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of UFO-Aktuellt delves into various aspects of UFO research, featuring a prominent interview with Professor J. Allen Hynek, a key figure in ufology. The magazine also includes a section on UFO-related articles appearing in the Swedish press, and a collection of 'clips and comments' on diverse UFO topics.

J. Allen Hynek Doubts Extraterrestrial Origin of UFOs

The lead article focuses on Professor J. Allen Hynek's skepticism regarding the extraterrestrial (ET) hypothesis for UFOs. Hynek, who served as a consultant for Stephen Spielberg's film 'Close Encounters of the Second Kind,' states that accepting the ET hypothesis requires overlooking numerous factors. He emphasizes the vast distances within the universe, suggesting that no conceivable technological method, from a human perspective, could facilitate travel between distant points and Earth. As a physicist, Hynek finds it difficult to accept the sheer number of observations, likening the frequency of potential visits to having an Apollo launch every afternoon. He also touches upon 'abduction cases,' which are challenging to investigate due to the lengthy process of retrieving memories under hypnosis. Hynek notes that abductees report being treated in a purely practical, matter-of-fact manner, akin to laboratory animals.

Hynek also discusses the potential connection between UFO phenomena and psychic experiences, such as out-of-body experiences, ESP, psychokinesis, and telepathy. He posits that UFOs might be a sign of an impending shift in our scientific understanding, forcing us to broaden our horizons. He contrasts the current scientific paradigm with historical beliefs, such as the geocentric model of the universe, reminding readers that scientific revolutions are ongoing.

UFO Photos and Analysis

The issue highlights the analysis of UFO photographs, particularly the cases from San José de Valderas, Spain (June 10, 1967), and Sedona, Arizona. The San José de Valderas photos reportedly show a model less than 25 cm in diameter held by a thread, a case linked to the 'Ummo affair.' The Sedona photo is described as a reflex. The article suggests that such valuable methodologies will likely be applied to many more cases, providing a firmer ground for UFO research.

UFO Articles in the Swedish Press

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a compilation of UFO-related articles and reviews published in various Swedish newspapers and magazines. These entries cover a wide range of topics:

• 'The Sirius Mystery': An article discussing Peter Nilsson's book, which is described as potentially the most sensational book of the century.
• 'The Flying Saucers - An Attitude Question': A response to previous debates, referencing articles by Gunnar Hillerdal.
• 'He Disappeared in the Death Triangle': An article about the disappearance of Wille Wallin during a solo sailing trip in the North Atlantic.
• 'Forest Spirit Seen in the 1800s - Now it's a Saucer': An interview with Arthur Levinsson about his experiences with forest spirits and UFOs.
• 'The Hum Over Sörmland': An article about an unexplained aerial phenomenon observed on April 12th.
• 'When Will the UFO Riddle Be Solved?': A review of Stigsjöö's third book, praised for its thoroughness but also noted for its potential to harm serious UFO research.
• 'Hitler in a Saucer?': A review of another book by Stigsjöö.
• 'About Flying Saucers': A review of Stigsjöö's book, which aims to settle accounts with the Condon Committee's conclusions.
• "Saucer Book" with a Question Mark': A critical review of Stigsjöö's book, questioning its quality and editing.
• 'A New Book About Saucer People': A review of Stigsjöö's book, highlighting its comprehensive material.
• 'Our Exciting World': A review of Peter Ryan's book 'Unidentified Flying Objects,' noting that only 24 pages are dedicated to the saucer phenomenon itself.
• 'Hypocritical as Ever': Stig Sjöö's response to criticism from Göran Bengtsson.
• 'The World is Bigger Than Sweden': A debate piece by Sven Magnusson criticizing Bengtsson's focus on Swedish literature and neglect of qualified international UFO research.

Other articles mentioned include those about the 'Sirius Mystery,' the Charles Moody case, the UFO congress in Acapulco, and theories by Däniken and Blumrich.

Clips and Comments

This section provides brief news items and commentary on UFO-related topics:

• 'Balloon Creatures on Jupiter?': An article from New Scientist Magazine suggesting that large, gas-form creatures might inhabit Jupiter's atmosphere, potentially visible to Mariner and other space probes.
• Jubilee Congress: Announcement of a congress in Chicago celebrating the 30th anniversary of Kenneth Arnold's observation.
• Fiasko? UFO Congress in Acapulco: A mixed reception for the Acapulco UFO congress, with some speakers, like Erich von Däniken, accused of seeking publicity. Attendees included figures like Hynek, Vallée, Keel, and Spaulding.
• From UFO to Christ: Roger Stanway, chairman of the British UFO organization BUFORA, resigned, stating his desire to prioritize his family and his belief that the UFO phenomenon has satanic origins.
• Donald Menzel's Passing: The death of Donald Menzel, a prominent critic of ufology in the USA, is noted, along with the posthumous publication of his book 'The UFO Enigma.'
• Bermuda Triangle Investigation: Reports that the Soviet Union and the USA will jointly investigate the Bermuda Triangle, a region known for unexplained disappearances and crashes, under the 'Operation Polymode' initiative.

Support AFU

The magazine concludes with a call for reader support for AFU (Archives for UFO Research), encouraging donations, contributions to their book fund, and the promotion of AFU's publications and activities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO evidence, particularly photographic and testimonial accounts. There is a strong emphasis on scientific analysis and skepticism, as exemplified by J. Allen Hynek's cautious approach to the extraterrestrial hypothesis. The magazine actively engages with and reviews a wide spectrum of UFO literature and media coverage, reflecting a commitment to documenting and discussing the phenomenon from various perspectives, while also acknowledging potential connections to psychic experiences and broader shifts in scientific understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous inquiry, encouraging critical thinking and the careful evaluation of claims within the field of ufology.